Reflexology in Pregnancy and Childbirth

"This book is carefully thought out, detailed and practical with all relevant safety issues considered. Whereas there is insuffient research in RZT to describe this text as a guide for evidence-based practice, the author has sought to give a scientific rationale for such an approach coupled with evidence available to date from case reports... Clearly this book is aimed at midwives and practising reflexologists, although it would be of interest to an expectant mother who might want to understand what RZT can offer her in maternity care." Focus on Complementary and  Alternative Therapy, June 2010"This book's strength comes from combining information about reflexology treatments, case studies and links to relevant research... very thorough in the explanations related to body organs and systems."International Therapist Magazine, April 2011

• Chapter 1 Theoretical Background to Structural Reflex Zone Therapy Introduction to reflexology Mechanism of action of reflexology Types of reflexology Reflex zone therapy Introducing Structural Reflex Zone TherapyThe evidence-base for reflexologyConclusion Chapter 2 Clinical Practice of Structural Reflex Zone Therapy in Maternity Care Aims of Structural RZT in pregnancy and childbirth Professional issues for midwives and reflexologists Preparation for treating pregnant and childbearing women with Structural RZTContraindications and precautions Structural RZT treatment sequenceReactions to treatment Chapter 3 Reflex zones used in Structural Reflex Zone therapy for maternity care Relaxation pointsPituitary glandReproductive organs Diagnostic potential of the reflex zones for the reproductive organsHead and neckMusculoskeletal systemLymphatic system Renal tract Gastrointestinal tract Endocrine systemHepato-biliary systemCardio-respiratory system Chapter 4 Structural Reflex zone therapy for pregnancy Introduction Infertility and preconception care Stress, anxiety and panic attacks; tiredness and insomniaNausea and vomiting, hyper-salivationHeadaches and migraine; neck painHeartburn and indigestionConstipationHaemorrhoidsBackache, sciatica and symphysis pubis discomfortOedema and carpal tunnel syndromeSinus congestion Breech presentation Chapter 5 Structural Reflex zone therapy for labour Introduction Pain relief in labourEstimation of the onset of labour with RZTInduction and acceleration of labourRetained placenta Chapter 6 Structural Reflex zone therapy for the puerperium Introduction Psycho-emotional recovery from birth Musculoskeletal system Uterus and retained products of conceptionPelvic floorKidneys, bladder and micturition Gastrointestinal tract and defaecation Lactation and breastfeeding References, further reading and sources of information Glossary of terms Appendices Suggested treatment sequence for RZT relaxation Manipulative techniques for Structural reflex zone therapyStructural Reflex zone therapy for pregnancyStructural Reflex zone therapy for labourStructural Reflex zone therapy for the puerperium